The product is however becoming increasingly popular in the United States and the United Kingdom with 41.7 per cent of 2016 liquid formula launches occurring in the UK. Approximately 21 per cent of launches occurred in the US.

Cheryl Ni, Food and Drink Analyst at Mintel, said research indicates high-end and niche food and drink products still have great potential in China.

“Organic infant milk formula has experienced a high adoption rate, indicating that consumers with more spending power are willing to pay a premium for products they perceive to be better for their infants,” she said.

“Premium infant milk formula products will become the focus of leading companies who meet infant formula registration measures. Brands need to identify the right way to communicate with mums, to probe into their needs in real life, and to provide them with solid proof of the product advantages,” Ni stated.

Key statistics – Infant formula use in China

65 per cent of Chinese mothers say they have used infant formula from a foreign brand in the past six-months

33 per cent of Chinese mothers have used a local brand in the past six-months

Chinese brands are more popular with mothers who have had two or more babies, with 44 per cent of these mothers using local brands

71 per cent of those who live in Shanghai use foreign infant formula

More than half of Chinese mothers think formula from Australia or New Zealand are better than formula from other countries